Former PNG striker pursues coaching pathway

He’s been a legend on the field for nearly two decades, and now the former PNG striker Maurie Wasi is turning his attention to leading from the sideline.

After making the move to New Zealand 15 years ago, Wasi has been involved both as a player and a coach, but as his knowledge for the game has developed, the latter has become his new passion.

“I’ve been playing but also involved in coaching for the last six years and I’ve been really getting into it,” Wasi said.

“I’m really enjoying coaching so I want to see if I can go far with that and if I’m good enough.”

In the past two seasons Wasi has worked as a youth coach for Auckland Football within the Federation Talent Centre (FTC) coaching the U14 boys in 2017 and the U16 in 2018.

Technical Director- Auckland Football Federation Talent Centre Nic Downes said Wasi’s role as head coach was to lead all coaching aspects of the preparation cycle and tournament week, with the objective of creating an environment where the players can excel at the National Age Group Tournament (NAGT). 

“Maurie has worked at Western Springs Auckland Football Federation Talent Centre for a number of years now and has invaluable knowledge of the young kids coming through the ranks having coached in the academy system for several years.

“With the Academy restructure this season Maurie is a key part in helping implement the program,” said Downes. 

“Wasi has a close and harmonious relationship with the younger players and is well liked. He is now transitioning into the senior environment and was recently appointed as reserve team head coach and assistant coach for senior team,” added Downes. 

“He has great enthusiasm and a wealth of playing experience to pass on to the younger players and is always willing to help improve any player.”

Motivated to play a greater role leading from the sideline, Wasi was recently accredited with an OFC C-Licence and he hopes to continue along the coaching pathway.

Author: 
Press release